Breakthrough License Allows AI Firms to Use Copyrighted Music Legally
Introduction
Sweden’s music rights organization, STIM, has introduced a license that allows artificial intelligence companies to legally use copyrighted songs for training their models, while ensuring that songwriters and composers are paid.
Factual Background
The surge in generative AI usage across creative industries has prompted lawsuits from artists, authors, and rights holders, alleging that AI firms use copyrighted material without consent or compensation to train their models. STIM represents over 100,000 songwriters, composers, and music publishers.
Procedural Background
STIM developed the license to address the growing use of AI in music creation and the need for fair compensation for creators. The license includes mandatory technology to track AI-generated outputs, ensuring transparency and payments for creators.
Issues
The main issue addressed by the license is the unauthorized use of copyrighted music by AI firms and the need for fair compensation for creators.
Contentions of the Parties
STIM: STIM contends that the license provides a solution for AI companies to use copyrighted music legally while ensuring fair compensation for creators.
AI Firms: AI firms may contend that the license imposes additional costs and complexity on their operations.
Reasoning and Analysis
The introduction of the license is based on the need to balance the interests of AI firms and creators. By providing a legal framework for the use of copyrighted music, STIM aims to ensure that creators are fairly compensated for their work.
Implications
The introduction of this license is expected to have significant implications for the music industry, particularly in ensuring fair compensation for creators. According to the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC), AI could reduce music creators’ income by up to 24% by 2028.
Relief Sought
STIM aims to provide a solution for AI companies to use copyrighted music legally while ensuring fair compensation for creators.